WEST OF HERE

In Jonathan Evison’s tale of exploration, journeys, and hope lies a challenging narration. Edoardo Ballerini must conquer dozens of voices as he portrays an eclectic mix of characters. He carefully crafts identities while shifting from pioneers in the Northwest more than 100 years ago to the area’s current residents. Quiet, deliberate Native American men and women, a gravelly voiced explorer, and a strong-willed feminist all from earlier times come to life. As the story leaps 100 years into the future, listeners hear a gregarious African-American parole officer, an intense former basketball star who is trying to find himself, and assorted townies. The multitude of characters intertwined in parallel stories that are connected by a pioneering spirit and a creative narration. M.B. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2011]